essential amino acid

noun

: any of various amino acids that are required for normal health and growth in many vertebrates, are either not manufactured in the body or manufactured in insufficient quantities, are usually supplied by dietary protein, and include histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine compare nonessential amino acid

Examples of essential amino acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Studies have identified over 75 compounds, including polysaccharides, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and seven essential amino acids, in the remaining 4 percent, as well as its anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and antiseptic effects. Karla Marie Sanford, Washington Post, 3 July 2024 The ingredient list is simply pea protein, which does include a full complement of essential amino acids. Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 20 June 2024 This powder has a substantial 20 grams of protein per serving and includes all essential amino acids, which have been shown to assist with muscle building and repair when paired with strength training. Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 20 June 2024 Summary Lysine is an essential amino acid that can be found in high-protein foods like meat, nuts, beans, and eggs. Brittany Lubeck, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 6 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for essential amino acid 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'essential amino acid.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1911, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of essential amino acid was in 1911

Dictionary Entries Near essential amino acid

Cite this Entry

“Essential amino acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/essential%20amino%20acid. Accessed 15 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

essential amino acid

noun
: an amino acid that is necessary for proper growth of the animal body and that cannot be made by the body in sufficient amounts but must be obtained from food containing proteins

Medical Definition

essential amino acid

noun
: any of various alpha-amino acids that are required for normal health and growth, are either not manufactured in the body or manufactured in insufficient quantities, are usually supplied by dietary protein, and in humans include histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine
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